Need to look at a little bit of gorgeous? Then you have come to the right wedding! Paul Rowland captured this stunning vintage wedding at one of my favorite Southern venues, CJ’s on the Square. Make sure to read below for Ashley’s thoughts on averting day-of weather disasters and how she knew Ryan was the one for her.

What was the most meaningful part of your day?

I’ll never forget the moment when my dad walked me into the ceremony. To see all of our loved ones gathered in one place, smiling at me, some of them crying—there was an overwhelming sense of love, knowing that they were all here for us. And then when I locked eyes with Ryan, who was focused on me with pure adoration (and tears) in his eyes, it suddenly snapped everything into perspective. All the stress and worry melted away. This is what this wedding was all about. This is what truly mattered.

Did anything funny or out of the ordinary happen?

There was a really powerful storm that day that dropped what seemed like a foot of rain in just the span of a couple hours. After lots of begging and bargaining with the weather gods, it finally dissipated about ten minutes before we walked down the aisle. Also, during our vows, Ryan accidentally said, “I be wed” instead of “I thee wed.” I still tease him about that.

How did you know your partner was “the one”?

There were key moments, but it was more of a gradual realization. We’d known ever since we’d met that we were extremely compatible, to the point of being almost creeped out at how alike we were. Beyond that, our relationship made me genuinely happy. Maintaining a relationship takes work, but it never really felt like work; it came naturally, because we were mutually invested in it. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that he’s hot.

Any advice you’d give new brides who are just getting started?

If you have to choose one thing to splurge on, make it your photographer. The pictures are the physical embodiment of your memories, which is far more important than all the other details.